There’s something different about Leslie Rivera and Daniel Mendez. Sure, they are high school sweethearts in love… but there’s more to the story. Leslie is dying and Daniel refuses to leave her side. So instead of letting the illness defeat them, instead they embraced each other and their love (you may need some tissues).

Leslie met her boyfriend while they were working in an anti-racism group.

She and Daniel have been dating since last October and have been true high school sweethearts.

In April, Leslie was diagnosed with leukemia. Even though she was ill, she was able to graduate from high school.

She spent the next months in the hospital getting aggressive treatment. She passed the time watching wedding shows (Unveiled and My Fair Wedding).

Leslie was referred to Make-A-Wish and she knew what she wanted instantly: to marry her best friend and boyfriend, Daniel, who was always by her side.

The 17 year-old was in serious condition, so Make-A-Wish worked quickly.

Before she knew it, Leslie was trying on dresses.

At one of her fittings, she was given an incredible surprise. Make-A-Wish flew in the hose of her favorite wedding shows, David Tutera.

They hugged and chatted about her dress…

Leslie was just like any other bride, winnowing down her list of dream dresses.

At last, she found the fairytale dress that was perfect for her.

And on November 21st, the wedding took place in Silverado, California.

Her dream wedding theme was rustic, similar to the wedding in the Twilight series.

The wedding show host was happy to plan the perfect wedding for Leslie, including a photo booth and chocolate covered strawberries.

It went off without a hitch and a smile never left Leslie’s face.

The day before the wedding, Leslie was getting blood transfusions… but nothing could stop her joy on the day.

Leslie greeted guests, performed her duties and was the sweetest bride. No one would have been able to guess the trials she was going through.

It was a truly joyful day and it was obvious the couple were meant to be together.

And for that one day, EVERYONE was able to focus on happiness instead of hospitals, illness and death.

Laughter and happiness is important and Make-A-Wish was thrilled to give both to Leslie.

Leslie is now in hospice care, surrounded by friends and family.

They made the most of their situation when so many others would have crumbled to pieces. Leslie and Daniel are an inspiration. By looking at her wedding photos, you would never guess that she was terminally ill. Leslie is an angel.

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